Telehandlers in the past decade, is also known as variable reach rough terrain forklift, has gained great fame within the material handling industry. With good reason, these specific machinery have become the gem of the construction business. These kinds of machines are versatile, very powerful and practical. Because some manufacturers and units has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are now a few of these machines readily available on the market.
In technical terms, a telehandler is considered to be an ITA* Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. This description means it is a rough terrain lift truck, but just in name only. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on operation and on sight. There are some other major differences between the two machines discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different appearance since it is designed with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance could look more like a crane than a forklift. The boom could telescope or extend and retract as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular unit. The boom could also elevate to an angle from horizontal to approximately 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" due to their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is referred to as a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom will move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. One of the key advantages of this function is that it enables the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks can be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction industry. They are able to accomplish many tasks which used to take much more time and man-power to complete.